A nurse is assessing a client for postpartum infection. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client requires further evaluation for endometritis?
Pelvic pain
Hematuria
A localized area of breast tenderness
A moderate amount of dark red lochia with a foul odor
The Correct Answer is A
Choice a) reason: Pelvic pain is a common symptom of endometritis. The pain is typically located in the lower abdomen and may be associated with uterine tenderness upon physical examination. This symptom, especially when combined with other signs such as fever and foul-smelling lochia, strongly suggests the need for further evaluation for endometritis.
Choice b) reason: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is not a typical symptom of endometritis. While it could be a sign of other postpartum complications, such as urinary tract infections or bladder injury during childbirth, it does not directly indicate endometritis.
Choice c) reason: A localized area of breast tenderness is more indicative of a breast infection, such as mastitis, especially if associated with breastfeeding. It is not a symptom of endometritis, which affects the uterus and not the breasts.
Choice d) reason: While foul-smelling lochia can be a sign of endometritis, the key is the presence of a foul odor. A moderate amount of dark red lochia alone, without a foul odor, is a normal finding in the immediate postpartum period. It's the transition from rubra (red) to serosa (pink/brown) to alba (yellow/white) that is expected as the uterus heals.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: When a client in active labor presents with hypotension, as indicated by a blood pressure reading of 82/52 mm Hg, the priority nursing intervention is to assist the client to turn onto her side. This position helps to alleviate pressure on the inferior vena cava, which can be compressed by the gravid uterus, thereby improving venous return and increasing blood pressure. It also enhances uteroplacental perfusion, providing better oxygenation to the fetus.
Choice B reason: While preparation for a cesarean birth may be necessary if there are signs of fetal distress or if the hypotension does not resolve, it is not the first-line intervention for isolated hypotension without other indications.
Choice C reason: Preparing for an immediate vaginal delivery is not the priority action in response to hypotension. The focus should be on stabilizing the mother's blood pressure to ensure safe delivery, whether vaginal or cesarean.
Choice D reason: Assisting the client to an upright position is not advisable in the case of hypotension, as this can further decrease venous return to the heart and exacerbate the low blood pressure.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice a reason:
The viability of the fetus at 38 weeks of gestation is typically not the primary concern when heavy, red vaginal bleeding occurs without contractions. Fetal movements reported by the mother are a good sign of fetal well-being. However, the ultrasound in this scenario is more likely to be used to rule out placental issues that could cause bleeding, rather than to assess fetal viability.
Choice b reason:
The biparietal diameter (BPD) is a measurement taken during an ultrasound to assess fetal growth and development. While BPD is an important parameter, it is not typically the focus of an urgent ultrasound in the context of heavy vaginal bleeding late in pregnancy. The BPD is more relevant to growth assessments rather than acute bleeding episodes.
Choice c reason:
Locating the placenta is crucial in the case of heavy, red vaginal bleeding at 38 weeks of gestation. The bleeding could be indicative of placental abruption or placenta previa, both of which are serious conditions that require immediate medical attention. An ultrasound can quickly determine the location of the placenta and assess for these conditions.
Choice d reason:
Assessing fetal lung maturity is not typically the priority in an emergency situation involving heavy vaginal bleeding. While lung maturity is an important consideration for the timing of delivery, especially in preterm labor, the immediate concern in this scenario would be to identify the source of bleeding and ensure the safety of both the mother and fetus.
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